Test Prep

Read the following sentences and try to choose the best definition for the word by searching for context clues in the sentence.

The designer window treatments in her house, installed 17 years ago, were outmoded.

• unnecessary

• pointless

• out-of-date

• worthless

The spies conducted a covert operation.

• dangerous

• foreign

• hidden

• illegal

The baseball player’s malice toward the referee was revealed in his spiteful remarks to the media, which almost ruined the referee’s career

• vindictive

• crazy

• rude

• unpleasant

Although Zachary is much too inexperienced for the managerial position, he is a willful young man and obdurately refuses to withdraw his application.

• foolishly

• reluctantly

• constantly

• stubbornly

His neighbor’s superficial remarks trivialized the property line dispute and infuriated Malcolm.

• enraged

• petty

• insulting

• misleading

She showed a blatant disregard for the rules.

• obvious

• hidden

• last-minute

• rebellious

Her fashion sense was usually described as flamboyant, but on the night of the party, Tanya’s outfit was uncharacteristically modest.

• impeccable

• showy

• sloppy

• unassuming

Mr. Powers was so gullible that he believed even the most outlandish excuses of his insincere employees.

• intelligent

• naïve

• dishonest

• critical

You cannot become a certified teacher without completing the prerequisite student-teaching assignment

• required

• optional

• preferred

• advisable

Charles, aware of his susceptibility to gum disease, is diligent about flossing.

• uncomfortable

• excited

• thorough

• ambivalent